‘Hive’ Director Blerta Basholli on How ‘Parasite’s’ Oscar Win Inspired Global Filmmakers

variety.com:

Leo Barraclough International Features EditorIn a new series, Variety catches up with the directors of the films shortlisted for the International Feature Film Oscar to discuss their road to the awards, what they’ve learned so far, and what’s taken them off guard.The triumph-over-adversity drama “Hive,” which is based on a true story, centers on a Kosovan woman whose husband went missing in the war.

Her attempt to set up a business is met with hostility from the men in her village. The film picked up the audience, directing and grand jury prizes in Sundance’s World Dramatic competition last year.What does it mean to you to be shortlisted for the best international feature Oscar?It means a lot and it’s an honor in many ways.

First of all, because of the inspiring story of the women of Krusha who decided to do something about themselves and their children and they did it; because of everyone who worked hard and put their passion into this film; and because of our beautiful small country Kosovo.

People have gone through a lot in this country and the journey of “Hive” is giving them hope. Everybody, literally everybody, is so proud of our film and they are all cheering for us in this awards season. What’s been the most challenging aspect of your campaign thus far?The film started its beautiful journey virtually at Sundance, where it broke records and made history with three awards and changed “Hive’s” and our lives.